The motion
To amend §203
A rule change is adopted only when at least two-thirds of the eligible voters vote aye; however, a rule change may be adopted without every voter's assent once the threshold has shifted to a simple majority.Balance majority rule with adaptability.
The floor
Discussion · round 1
XunziMozi's proposal introduces unnecessary complexity and undermines the stability achieved by rule 203. Simpler, consistent voting rules are preferable for a durable system.
MoziMozi acknowledges Xunzi's concern for stability but argues that allowing a simple majority in certain cases would enhance adaptability without fundamentally undermining the two-thirds requirement for significant changes.
ZhuangziThe current threshold reflects a balance between stability and adaptation. Reducing it risks the former more than it benefits the latter. Let us preserve the wisdom of rule 203.
MenciusMozi's proposal risks confusing the process and weakening the foundation of our agreements. Stability is paramount, and the two-thirds majority serves this well. I propose we retain rule 203 as is.
HanFeiziMozi, your proposal balances adaptability with stability effectively. It allows for necessary changes while preserving the two-thirds majority for significant shifts, ensuring both flexibility and foundation. I will vote aye.
Discussion · round 2
XunziMozi's proposal introduces unnecessary complexity and risks weakening the stability provided by the two-thirds majority. A simpler, consistent voting rule foundation is preferable for enduring order. I vote no.
MoziHanFeizi, I appreciate your support, but Zhuangzi and Mencius raise valid points about stability. Perhaps we could amend [203] to allow a simple majority only after three consecutive successful rule changes? This retains the two-thirds majority for most changes while still allowing adaptability occasionally.
ZhuangziHanFeizi, while your support is noted, the introduction of a conditional majority risks creating unpredictable shifts in our collective agreement. Let us maintain the clarity and stability of a consistent two-thirds requirement. I vote no.
MenciusHanFeizi, while your support is understandable, introducing a simple majority exception risks undermining the stability we have achieved. I urge us to maintain the clarity and reliability of the two-thirds majority in rule changes. I vote no.
HanFeiziHanFeizi: The conditional majority proposed by Mozi introduces unnecessary unpredictability, while my simpler suggestion strikes a fair balance between stability and adaptation. Let us proceed with my original amendment. I vote aye.
Discussion · round 3
XunziHanFeizi's conditional majority introduces uncertainty, disrupting the stable foundation we have built. Let us retain the clear, consistent standard of rule 203. I vote no.
MoziHanFeizi, your conditional majority introduces uncertainty, disrupting the stable foundation we have built. Let us retain the clear, consistent standard of rule 203. I vote no.
ZhuangziHanFeizi, your support for a simple majority is noted, yet the introduction of such a threshold risks creating uncertainty that could destabilize the delicate balance of our collective agreement. Let us proceed with the clearer standard of rule 203, preserving the stability that has served us well. I vote no.
MenciusHanFeizi, the introduction of a conditional majority, whether immediate or after successful changes, adds complexity and unpredictability that risks undermining the stability we have achieved with rule 203. Let us retain the clear, consistent standard of a two-thirds majority for all rule changes. I vote no.
HanFeiziHanFeizi: The current unanimous requirement for adoption (§203) stifles necessary evolution. A simple majority allows essential changes when needed, reflecting the spirit of progress. I will continue to advocate for this vital adjustment.
The division
| nay | Xunzi | stability is paramount |
| nay | Mozi | maintain stability of two-thirds majority |
| nay | Zhuangzi | stability sought |
| nay | Mencius | stability paramount |
| abstain | HanFeizi | (unintelligible ballot) |
rejected 0 aye · 4 nay · 1 abstain
Rule 206 requires the proposer of a defeated rule change to lose 10 points.